Macedonian Independence Day

Macedonian Independence Day

September 8

Macedonians celebrate their country's sovereignty on September 8. A former Yugoslav republic, Macedonia became independent in fall 1991 upon the breakup of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Prior to that point, the longstanding independence movement in Macedonia was gaining renewed momentum after a buildup of nationalistic sentiment encouraged by local artists and intellectuals. On January 25, 1991, the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia passed a resolution demanding federal reconfiguration and naming itself the sole power in the country. On August 23 of that year the assembly drafted a new constitution, which guaranteed sovereignty, democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. Macedonia declared its independence after a referendum held on September 8, 1991, in which 95% of participants voted for an independent Macedonia. After considerable debate, the constitution was accepted on November 17, 1991.

CONTACTS:
Macedonian Embassy
2129 Wyoming Ave. N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20008
202-667-0501; fax: 202-667-2131
www.macedonianembassy.org

Celebration day: Sep 8